Think of Artis—Naples and one might conjure images of plush seating in a large luxury theater, Broadway-on-tour shows, concerts by the Naples Philharmonic and artwork. It can also be quite expensive. But twice a year Artis—Naples invites the public to enjoy a wide menu of the arts during Community Days, and it’s all free.
Andrew West
Artis—Naples
“The idea is that the whole community can come,” says Ashley Mirakian, vice president of marketing.
Families love the opportunity to explore the place for free.
Danielle and Frank Chaprnka bring their 10-year-old daughter Paloma to Community Days.
“There are different ways for the kids to explore,” Danielle says. “There is painting, music, all sorts of different avenues.”
Danielle says her daughter enjoys both the traditional arts activities and the special guest events. At a previous Community Day, Paloma met a dog wolf from Shy Wolf Sanctuary. Then she had fun with music and painting.
“It’s the instruments they get to explore,” Danielle says. “The music they get to enjoy. It is just all free.
"It is just such a great way to have my daughter interact with different forms of art.”
Ashley says Artis—Naples wants children and their families to explore the many aspects of art. There are instruments for people to try. Cadence Music brings an assortment for an activity they call Instrument Zoo. There are also exhibitions to view, live music and various types of artwork to create.
“My kids are 3 and 5, and they love it,” Ashley says. “It is really meant for everyone.”
The winter Community Day on January 18 will be extra special, Ashley says. The Baker Museum, which has been closed since it was damaged by Hurricane Irma in September 2017, will be open.
“We have a very exciting exhibition on impressionism that is on loan to us,” Ashley says.
Colorful Chihuly glass sculptures under the museum’s glass ceiling — a favorite for children — returns as well.
“The free activities include live music, hands-on art experiences and access to the galleries,” Ashley says. “It is so cool. Kids really love the campus.”
If you go
- What: Community Day
- Where: Artis—Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples
- When: The winter Community Day is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, January 18. Then the spring Community Day takes place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 23.
- Cost: Free
- Phone: 239-597-1900
- Online: artisnaples.org